Check the pharmacy’s license and accreditation. Look for verification seals from organizations like LegitScript or the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). A legitimate pharmacy will clearly display this information.
Confirm the physical address. A legitimate online pharmacy will have a verifiable physical address, not just a PO box. You should be able to locate the address on Google Maps.
Verify the pharmacist’s credentials. A legitimate online pharmacy lists the credentials of its pharmacists. Contact information for these individuals should also be readily available.
Review customer testimonials and reviews. Use independent review sites, not just reviews on the pharmacy’s own website. Look for a pattern of positive experiences and addresses to negative feedback.
Scrutinize their privacy policy. Ensure they clearly state how they protect your personal and medical information. Look for compliance with HIPAA or similar regulations.
Inspect their security protocols. Check for secure payment gateways (https) and encryption to protect your financial details.
Compare prices cautiously. Extremely low prices often signal counterfeit products. A slightly higher price from a verified pharmacy is safer than a suspiciously cheap alternative.
Contact the pharmacy directly. Ask questions about their dispensing process, medications, and return policies. A legitimate pharmacy will answer promptly and thoroughly.
Report suspicious pharmacies. If you encounter a pharmacy you suspect is illegitimate, report them to the relevant authorities.
